Montreal Local Tips

Be sure to explore Montréal’s infamous underground tunnel system (look for signs marked RESO), which lies beneath most of downtown. It’s especially attractive during the frigid winter months, when it provides a way to get around without going outdoors. The pedestrian passageways are also lined with boutiques and restaurants.

Much of the island of Montréal can be covered on foot. Failing that, the city's easily navigable public transit system will get you to most points of interest. Just look for the big blue signs with the white arrows.

Services are plentiful and range from the usual bus tours to specialized options like horse-drawn carriage rides and river cruises. For an initial orientation, Gray Line Montréal runs a popular three-hour bus tour that covers over 200 points of interest throughout the city. (www.grayline.com).

Pick up a pass for just $44 for unlimited public transportation plus access to 32 museums and attractions over a three-day period – a great buy if your visit involves an ambitious sightseeing plan.

This superb festival in late-June to early-July features 3,000 artists from 30 countries. Start planning at least four months in advance as tickets and accommodations sell out fast. (www.montrealjazzfest.com).

Big name comedians like Joan Rivers and Jeremy Piven make this mid-July festival another Montréal hit. Plan vacations during this time at least three months in advance (www.hahaha.com).

Even winter doesn't stop Montrealers from having a good time at this festival in late-January to early February when all things “snow” – skiing, sledding, snow-sculpting – are celebrated  (www.fetedesneiges.com).

Getting into Montréal from the airport by public transit is possible but unwise – connections are both complicated and time-consuming. Fortunately, taxis and limos have a fixed rate ($34 and $49 respectively) for the 20 to 30-minute drive downtown. Another option, L'Aérobus, departs from the airport every 20 to 25 minutes and makes several stops before arriving at the Central Bus Station 40 minutes later (514-842-2281; $13).

Get unlimited access to the bus and metro system for one day for around US$8, or three consecutive days for around US$15. After you buy the card, scratch out the month and day (or three consecutive days) you wish to use it. 514-786-4636; www.stm.info

Pick up some of the local lingo at one of two hotels that offer French lessons to guests. Hotel Nelligan and Le Place d'Armes Hotel have a package that includes five nights' accommodation and 18 hours of private tutelage. 514-842-1887; www.hotelplacedarmes.com

The two main events – jazz and comedy festivals – are a great time to visit. But Montrealers also celebrate literature, documentaries, video games, Asian film, Caribbean music, African culture, gays and lesbians, arts and crafts, beer, fireworks, and the French language. www.montrealfestivals.ca

This multi-service tourist information bureau run by Quebec's Ministère du Tourisme has information on all Quebec destinations. It offers accommodation booking, sightseeing tours, currency exchange, Internet access, a souvenir shop, national parks information, and car rentals. 877-266-5687; www.bonjourquebec.com